Johnston Canyon to Upper Falls
A busy paved canyon route on narrow rail-lined bridges to the 30 m Upper Falls.
Route overview
Follow the signed canyon walkway to Upper Falls and return.
Follow the uneven paved canyon path past Lower Falls to Upper Falls, with an optional official viewpoint 265 m farther. Narrow passing areas, wet pavement and winter ice require care despite the modest distance.
Trail facts
- Country
- Canada
- Region
- Banff National Park, Alberta
- Distance
- 4.8 km round trip
- Typical duration
- 2 hours
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Elevation gain
- 215 m gain; 125 m loss
- Best season
- Summer to early autumn
- Trail type
- Out and back
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- No hiking permit; park entry required
Safety context
Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Crowding, slippery pavement, narrow bridges, rockfall and winter ice
Highlights
Johnston Canyon, Lower Falls, Upper Falls, canyon bridges
Why find a buddy
Suitable for a first meetup; a partner helps with crowd management and slick conditions.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.